San Juan

I kontrasternas stad möter hypermoderna skyskrapor djungel och vilda apor. Här är religionsfrihet en grundpelare, maten bär influenser från olika kulturer och hindu­tempel ligger sida vid sida med moskéer och buddistiska tempel. Kort sagt: ett Asien i miniatyr.

The former British administrative enclave is Singapore's showcase, home to a swathe of grand colonial buildings, modern architectural marvels, superlative museums and parks and the track for the Formula One night race. High rollers try their luck at futuristic Marina Bay. Bisecting it all, the Singapore River also connects the three quays – home to restaurants, clubs and bars which bring a buzzing nocturnal life to the area.

While Singapore's Chinatown may be a tamer version of its former self, its temples, heritage centre, and booming restaurant and bar scene make the trip there worthwhile. The CBD is best known for its stunning, ever-evolving skyline: rooftop bars jostle with old-school temples, all set against the financial heart that funds Singapore.

Singapore's good-time island is dedicated to unabashed fun, from ambitious theme parks and a breathtaking aquarium to zip-lines, fake surf and cool beach bars.

Little India is Singapore trapped in its gritty past – it's frenetic, messy and fun. Spice traders spill their wares across its five-foot ways and Indian labourers swarm into the area each weekend. Kampong Glam, the former home of the local sultan, is an eclectic mix of Islamic stores and eateries, hipster bars and boutiques.

Chic, salubrious Holland Village may not be a must for visitors, but its boutiques, cafes and 'lunching ladies' offer a revealing slice of expat life. Even leafier is historic Dempsey Hill, a converted barracks laced with antiques dealers, boutiques, cafes and languid bistros. Upstaging them both is the Botanic Gardens, an invigorating blend of rare orchids, precious rainforest and romantic dining.